If you are a fan of literature, you might have heard the name of Henry Miller, the American author who is known for his controversial works. Miller spent a significant amount of time in Paris, which was a hub for artists and writers in the early 20th century. So, if you are wondering where Henry Miller lived in Paris, read on.
Early life and career
Henry Miller was born in New York City in 1891. He started his career as a writer in the 1920s and gained recognition for his bold and sexually explicit works. His most famous book Tropic of Cancer was banned in the United States until 1961 due to its controversial content.
Moving to Paris
Miller moved to Paris in 1930 to explore the bohemian lifestyle and pursue his writing career. He lived there for nine years and wrote several books during this period. Paris was an ideal location for young writers like him because it offered cheap living expenses, a vibrant culture scene, and intellectual stimulation.
Where did Henry Miller live?
Miller lived in several locations throughout his stay in Paris. One of his most famous residences was at 18 Villa Seurat, a small street located in Montparnasse. The street was home to several artists and writers at that time, including Samuel Beckett and Joan Miro.
Villa Seurat
Miller lived at Villa Seurat from 1930-1934 with his second wife June Mansfield. The couple rented a small apartment on the sixth floor of a building overlooking the street below. The apartment had no running water or heating facilities but provided them with an excellent view of the city.
Rue Vercingétorix
After leaving Villa Seurat, Miller moved to Rue Vercingétorix in the fourteenth arrondissement. He lived there from 1934-1939 with his third wife, Eve McClure. It was during his stay here that he wrote some of his most famous works, including Tropic of Cancer and Black Spring.
Rue Auguste Comte
In 1939, Miller moved to Rue Auguste Comte in the fifteenth arrondissement. He lived there until 1940 when he left Paris due to the war. During his stay at this location, Miller wrote The Colossus of Maroussi, a travelogue about his experiences in Greece.
Conclusion
Henry Miller’s time in Paris was an essential period in his life and career. He lived in several locations throughout the city and was inspired by its vibrant culture scene and intellectual stimulation. If you are ever in Paris, take a stroll through Villa Seurat or Rue Vercingétorix and imagine what it would have been like to live there during the early 20th century.